Winter Chill Sweeps Through the UAE

Winter Chill in UAE: Temperature Slightly Drops, Feels Much Colder

The weather in the United Arab Emirates always holds surprises during winter, especially in the country's interior, mountainous, and desert regions. Although the annual average temperature is high, during winter months, significant cooling can occur, which not only show low values on the thermometer but also can be keenly felt by our senses. For instance, temperatures of 1.6°C have been recorded in recent days, and while the temperature decrease is expected to be just a few degrees, the chill can feel significantly stronger due to the northwesterly wind.

The Difference Between Actual and Perceived Cold

According to the Meteorological Centre, the daytime temperature will drop only slightly in the coming days, roughly by 1-3 degrees. However, this figure can be deceptive since the intense northwesterly winds will make the air feel much cooler than what the thermometer shows. This phenomenon is well-known in meteorology as wind movement enhances the heat loss from the skin surface, making a person feel colder.

Starting from Windy Sunday, the winds will increasingly impact the country, initially on coastal areas, then moving inland. The sea state is also worsening, with strong wave action expected throughout the day on the Arabian Sea.

Regions Where Near-Freezing Values Have Been Measured

In the country's western regions, especially in the Al Dhafra area, nighttime temperatures have already dropped to between 1-3°C, which is unusually low for the UAE. Mountainous areas, such as Jebel Hafeet and Jebel Jais, also consistently report lower values as their elevation above 1000 meters exposes them more to rapid cooling.

The most interesting area, however, is the Raknah region in the northern part of Al Ain. This location is famous for being one of the coldest points in the country, supported by local topographical features. The so-called orographic effect—where wind is forced upward by the terrain, cooling as it rises—can reduce nighttime minimums by 3-4 degrees. A thin frost formed here Friday morning, a familiar sight to many residents from previous winters: frozen ice on cars, frosted plants, and foggy, cold mornings.

After Warmer Days, the Cold Returns

According to meteorological forecasts, milder days are expected in the middle of the week. Starting Monday, the wind direction will shift to blow from the east and northeast, slightly raising the temperature. A warming of 1-3 degrees is likely on Tuesday and Wednesday, but by Thursday, the northwesterly winds will return, bringing another cooldown, especially in the evening and early morning hours.

The forecast also suggests that minor rain could develop around the Arabian Sea, mainly on the islands and along the western coastline. Light precipitation with foggy mornings is possible in the western parts of the country on Tuesday and Wednesday. The chance of fog formation exists almost every day in the coming days, especially in the west, where the combination of cold air and high humidity creates ideal conditions for fog development.

What Does This Mean for Residents and Visitors?

The significant increase in the perceived cold especially affects those who are outdoors early in the morning or late at night or work outdoors. The northwesterly wind can particularly hinder evening walks and outdoor activities in coastal cities like Dubai. For mountain hikers, it's advisable to prepare well for the changeable weather and rapid cooling, particularly in the Jebel Jais area, where near-freezing values are not uncommon.

From a transportation perspective, fog can pose a problem, especially in the morning. Drivers should exercise increased caution and pay attention to roadside digital displays indicating deteriorating visibility conditions.

The Special Face of Winter in the Emirates

Although the UAE is frequently associated with scorching summer heat and tropical nights, the winter season has its own charm. Rare frosty mornings, dunes enveloped in fog, and the rippling sea in the cool wind contribute to offering both locals and visitors a very different side of the country.

Many people travel to the mountains or desert during this time to observe the calmer, cooler side of nature. Winter offers opportunities for outdoor sports as well, as the temperature is ideal for running, cycling, or even desert hiking.

Summary

In the coming days, while the temperature drop in the UAE is only a few degrees, the strong northwesterly wind significantly enhances the feeling of cold. Coastal areas and mountainous regions are particularly affected, where wind and topography can lead to near-freezing conditions. According to the meteorological service, a respite in the middle of the week will be followed by another cooldown towards the weekend, accompanied by rain and fog. During such periods, appropriate clothing, safe driving, and attention to weather forecasts are crucial—even on Dubai's sunny streets.

(Source: Based on a National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) announcement.)